Special Feature: Name Songs — Masterpieces with Names Sung by Artists

HattoriUNICORN

UNICORN – Hattori (Louder Version)

A track included on UNICORN’s album Hattori, released in June 1989.

It’s a soul-tinged number marked by a hard-hitting guitar riff that portrays the stylish, laid-back confidence of a man in his thirties.

The story, which offers young listeners tips on the art of romantic give-and-take, unfolds in a distinctive narrative style, with playful, humorous lyrics that are part of its appeal.

The song stood out in the music scene at the time and became an important work that helped accelerate the band’s momentum after their debut.

The album Hattori was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan and reached No.

3 on the Oricon album chart.

my nameback number

back number – My Name (full)

This is a gem of a medium-tempo ballad that portrays a profound form of love in which hearts connect simply by calling each other’s names.

Set to the gentle melodies woven by back number, it warmly sings of gratitude and devoted feelings toward someone precious.

Meeting someone who accepts your weaknesses and wounds, and the desire to give them everything—these emotions make for a bittersweet yet heartwarming song that leaves a deep impression.

Released as a single in May 2016 and included on the album “Encore,” this track was written as the theme song for the film “Wolf Girl and Black Prince.” It reached No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and earned Gold Disc certification, becoming a popular hit.

It’s a heartwarming love song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone important to you, recommended for moments when you want to renew your gratitude for irreplaceable people—be they a partner, a friend, or family.

I’ll call your name.rakkuraifu

LACCO TOWER / I'll Call Your Name [Music Video] (TV Anime “Bungo Stray Dogs” Ending Theme)

This is a heartwarming song that gently sings about the importance of human connection.

Crafted in May 2016 by Luck Life, a four-piece rock band from Osaka, the story brims with the comfort found in calling someone by name and the joy of mutually recognizing each other’s presence.

With a melodious sound and carefully chosen words, the piece reaches out to accompany our everyday lives.

It was also selected as the ending theme for the anime “Bungo Stray Dogs,” resonating with many listeners.

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad, it’s the kind of song you’ll want to hear while thinking of someone dear.

Sergio EchigoRin to shite Shigure

Sergio Echigo

While many people are drawn to songs that weave in personal names, this release from Ling tosite sigure presents a unique world by using the name of well-known soccer commentator Sergio Echigo as its title.

Released in July 2006 as a track on the album “Feeling your UFO,” the song captivates with poetic imagery born from abstract lyrics and intense guitar riffs.

Dusk-lit landscapes, regrets about the past, and a sense of loss are vividly portrayed through the twin vocals of TK and 345.

Dear John Lennon,Magokoro Burazāzu

Magokoro Brothers - Dear John Lennon

A unique song written in the form of a letter to a legendary musician.

Released by Magokoro Brothers in June 1996, the track portrays a bygone superstar who championed love and peace, blending occasional irony with deep respect.

It was also included on the album “GREAT ADVENTURE” and reached No.

57 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Though some provocative expressions sparked controversy at the time, the song resonates with many listeners as a work imbued with a sincere devotion to music.

It’s a classic recommended for those who want to explore the history of rock music or seek timeless, universal messages.

ErikaKOKIA

KOKIA – Erika

This song is included on KOKIA’s original album “songbird” and was released in 1999.

It’s a piece that expresses feelings for a close friend named Erika.

Filled with happy memories and the dreams they talked about, it’s a gentle song for a best friend that gives the strength to keep moving forward while thinking of each other, even when they’re apart.

Takashi-kunMoriyama Naotaro

Takashi-kun Naotaro Moriyama

It’s a song included on Naotaro Moriyama’s concept album “Rare Tracks vol.1,” released in 2010.

The album features newly recorded versions of songs that had previously been shelved, and this particular track is about Moriyama’s on-site manager, Takashi Sekiguchi.